Retirement Planning in Kenya: Lessons from Global Trends and Practical Local Solutions

November 2025

Recent research from Goldman Sachs highlights a growing challenge for families worldwide: saving enough for retirement is getting harder. Their 2025 Retirement Survey and Insights Report shows that costs for essentials like housing, healthcare and education have risen much faster than incomes, leaving less room for long-term savings. 

Many people now find themselves juggling multiple financial priorities, from paying off debts to supporting family and saving for children’s education. 

What Does This Mean for Kenyan Families? 

While the Goldman Sachs report focuses on the US, the trends are relevant here in Kenya. Rising costs and competing financial demands are just as real for Kenyan families. However, the tax-efficient savings accounts and pension vehicles discussed in the report are not widely available in Kenya. This means local investors need different solutions to build long-term financial security. 

How Waugh McDonald’s Global Wealth Strategies Can Help 

Our clients have access to global investment options that address these challenges directly: 

• Global Diversification: By investing across different countries and currencies, you reduce the risk of relying on one market or currency.

• Risk Profiling: We help you choose investments that match your comfort with risk and your long-term goals.

• Access to Hard Currencies: Investing in strong international currencies helps protect your savings from local inflation and currency swings.

• Personalised Planning: We work with you to create a plan that fits your family’s needs, taking into account your income, expenses and future goals.

• Evidence-Based Investing: Our strategies are built on research and real-world data, not just market trends or speculation.

Key Takeaways for Kenyan Families

• Start planning and saving as early as possible. The power of compounding means even small amounts can grow significantly over time.

• Don’t rely on old rules of thumb. Today’s world requires flexible strategies that adapt to rising costs and changing priorities.

• Get advice that’s tailored to your situation. Personalised planning makes a big difference in reaching your retirement goals.

• Consider global investments to protect your wealth and give you more options for the future.

Final Thoughts 

The Goldman Sachs report makes it clear: retirement planning is more complex than ever, but with the right strategies and support, individuals and families can build a secure future. Waugh McDonald’s global wealth solutions are designed to help you navigate these challenges and achieve long-term financial security. 

If you’d like to discuss your retirement plan or learn more about global investment options, get in touch with us today at info@waughmcdonald.co.ke